Hebridean Sheep are a small, hardy breed with fine bones and a
tail reaching no lower than the hocks. Both sexes are horned, and about 10% of
animals have four or more horns. Occasionally polled ewes are to be seen but
these are genetically four horned and usually produce horned lambs. The animals
are entirely black, though the fleece usually goes grey with age. Lambs may
have a dark brown appearance because the tips of the fleece have been bleached
by the sun. The wool has a stiff, springy quality. It sheds water easily. The
face and legs are free of wool. Ewes lamb very easily. The Hebridean is a very
active and long-lived sheep, ewes often still lambing well at ten years or
more. It thrives on all types of grazing and responds well to all management
systems. Average mature ewe weighs 38-40kg, rams 50-55kg.
Content and Photo
Source: National Sheep Association.